One of the most iconic, most recognisable and most in demand pieces of vintage military clothing on the planet! I get more requests for hook deck jackets than anything else, and it's an absolute pleasure to present this beauty for sale.
The hook deck jackets were introduced in the later part of 1942 when the zip closure on the 'jungle cloth jackets (blue winter type)' proved difficult to open and close in gloves. The navy looked to firefighters and lifted the hook closure from their heavy outer coats.
This particular jacket is from one of the last hook contracts, ordered February 43 and delivered by November 43, made by Mario G Mirabelli, Elizabeth, NJ. This contract is actually a little unique in that you can find blue hook deck jackets, early blue N1s and early Khaki N1s all with the same contract number!
Built of a tough jungle cloth shell with a wool lining, these deck jackets were built to last, and like this one, many were worn hard. And much the better this looks for it, the perfect fade, and just enough salt to keep it beautiful. Honestly, this is one of the most beautiful vintage jackets I've ever seen, I'm not sure exactly what has happened to it, but my best guess is paint splash that has been picked off. The patina that it's left is honestly stunning, this would be a perfect design reference piece!
Condition
This is in well used but solid condition. The jungle cloth has a heavy patina but is very solid. There are a number of small holes are areas of wear, but nothing that warrants too much concern. The hooks are lightly corroded but again working well. When it arrived with me it had very bad cuff and sleeve repairs which I've complete fixed and reset, using the period cuffs she'd arrived with. She's a uniquely beautiful piece that is in wearable condition, but should as ever been used with care.
Size
- Tagged a 38
- Fits like a perfect modern medium
- Pit to pit 22"
- Shoulder to shoulder 18"
- Shoulder to cuff 24"
- Collar to hem 25"